After upgrading to iOS 26, many iPhone users have experienced issues with AirDrop not working. If both of your devices are running iOS 26, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled, and the firewall is off, yet AirDrop still doesn’t work, don’t worry. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve the issue and get your AirDrop working again.
1. Check AirDrop Settings
First, make sure that AirDrop is set up correctly on both devices.
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Select AirDrop.
- Ensure it’s set to Everyone or Contacts Only (depending on your preference).
If it’s set to Receiving Off, your device won’t be able to receive AirDrop files. Adjust the settings to Everyone if you’re having issues with receiving files from people outside your contacts.
2. Toggle Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Off and On
Even though Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled, they may not be functioning correctly after the iOS upgrade. A quick toggle may help.
- Open Control Center (swipe down from the top-right corner).
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Wait for about 10 seconds, then turn them back on.
This simple step often resolves temporary connectivity issues.
3. Restart Both Devices
Sometimes, a simple restart can solve many iPhone-related problems. Try restarting both devices involved in the AirDrop transfer:
- For iPhone 8 or later: Press and release the Volume Up button, press and release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side Button until the slider appears. Slide to power off, then restart the device.
- For iPhone 7 or earlier: Press and hold the Top (or Side) button and Home Button until the slider appears. Slide to power off, then restart the device.
Restart both iPhones and attempt the AirDrop transfer again.
4. Ensure Both Devices Are Unlocked
AirDrop only works if both devices are unlocked. If either device is locked or asleep, the transfer won’t initiate. Ensure that both devices are awake and unlocked when trying to use AirDrop.
5. Reset Network Settings
If AirDrop is still not working, there may be an issue with the network settings on your iPhone. Resetting your network settings can fix issues related to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirDrop:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General, then scroll down and tap Reset.
- Select Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so make sure you have those details handy.
6. Update to the Latest iOS Version
Sometimes, specific bugs with AirDrop are resolved with minor updates released by Apple after a major iOS upgrade. Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS 26 or check if any new updates are available:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General, then Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
7. Turn Off Personal Hotspot
If you have a Personal Hotspot enabled, it can interfere with AirDrop. Turn it off before using AirDrop:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Personal Hotspot.
- Toggle off the Allow Others to Join option.
8. Contact Apple Support
If none of the above steps resolves the issue, it may be time to contact Apple Support. There may be an underlying software or hardware issue that requires professional assistance.
Conclusion
AirDrop is a convenient tool for sharing files between iPhones, but after an iOS 26 upgrade, it can occasionally encounter issues. By following the above steps, you should be able to fix the issue and get back to sharing files effortlessly. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.
